In the wake of the fires, I've been thinking a lot about people suddenly rebuilding their collections of favorite things (of course, not everything can be replaced, and so much more than things were lost), and how I might approach this unbelievably daunting task. There are definitely pieces I turn to again and again for a variety of outfits -- let's call them "reliable wardrobe staples", so I thought I would share some of those in this Jot.
Of course, none of these items can rebuild the sense of home & security that was lost, but perhaps they help give some sense of normalcy, and for those who aren't rebuilding but are still looking for some reliable pieces, these are also for you.
Sending love near + far.
xx - M
P.S. Plagiarism is bad. Don't do it. ;)
Jot.
Cashmere Cardigan. Reformation Clara Cashmere Crew Cardigan - I have this in grey and navy (it's currently offered in 15 colors). It's a great cut (not cropped but not baggy), and pairs well with pants and a top or a dress...the cashmere is so soft and never itchy!
Cashmere Shawl. White+Warren Cashmere Travel Wrap - This wrap is a staple in my day-to-day outfits and travel bag. I love the length (it's long in a chic way but not overwhelming), and makes cold offices, conference rooms, and planes so much cozier.
Cashmere Turtleneck. Naadam Signature Cashmere Classic Turtleneck - The last item in this cashmere trio is this turtleneck. I love a turtleneck, especially in winter when I want some additional warmth under a blazer. I have it in grey, but I've been eyeing the black as well.
Durable Tights. Sheertex Ultra Sheer Rip-Resistant Tights - I've featured these tights on Jot. before. They are by far the best tights I've ever had. I no longer wince every time my tights catch a splinter under a table or a prong of a ring. They are also very easy to wash.
Chic Blazer. Anine Bing Quinn Blazer - I love blazers. I wear them often during the day and out at night, so I've invested in a nice collection over the years, and Anine Bing is one of my go-to brands for blazers. Their cuts are versatile enough to look nice over pants and dresses. I bought this coat in the camel cashmere blend a few years ago, and it's offered almost year-round. It goes well with black and navy, as well as other camel / brown colors.
Black Long Sleeve Shirt. Uniqlo Heattech T-Shirt - Love love love. I have a handful in black, and they have kept their color after years of washes. The neckline is elegant and can be paired nicely with jeans, a skirt, or under a sweater.
White Leather Sneaker. Taos Plim Soul Lux - For me, white sneakers aren't as much of a fashion statement as they are a staple item, and I really have no desire to spend $600 - $800 on designer sneakers that are typically very heavy and not built for comfort. These sneakers are supportive and so comfortable, and I love that there is minimal branding on the shoe. They are great for travel and are easy to clean with a wipe if they start to get a little dirty.
Comfy Ballet Flat. Margaux The Demi Jane - I've featured these before, but these are a great alternative to expensive designer flats. These are extremely well-made and very comfortable. I have them in ecru!
Timeless Trench. Sezanne Clyde Trench Coat - This coat has been making the rounds on blogs and social media, and for good reason! I bought the dark khaki color, but they have a handful of versatile colors. The cut, fabric, lining, and weight are all great. It's not waterproof, but it's a nice piece to have, and the dark khaki goes well with brown, grey, blue, and black.
My Favorite Ribbed Tank. LNA Scoop Ribbed Tank - The cut and fabric for this tank are 10/10. The straps are the right thickness, the neckline is very flattering, and it looks great over a sports bra or under a cardigan or blazer in a more formal setting. I suggest getting one in black and one in white!
Elegant Sweatpants. Alo Soho Sweatpant - I'm not a big fan of cashmere sweatpants, as I don't like dry clean only sweatpants (kind of an oxymoron). However, I do like the elegance of cashmere sweatpants in concept, and these are a perfect middle ground! The material is "cashmere-like" and is also very breathable. I have a few colors--with the matching Soho Pullover, and they are great for cozy nights in or daily errands (especially when paired with a cute vest & sneakers).
New Year's Card: Modern Woman Arranging her Hair in Front of Mirror Japanese, Taisho- early Showa era Tanaka & Co.